1
|
Hassan Khanzada M, Khan A, Khan K, Jalal K, Aghayeva S, Uddin R. A reverse vaccinomics approach for the designing of novel immunogenic multi-epitope vaccine construct against gas gangrene and related colorectal cancer for Clostridium septicum DSM 7534. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:111169. [PMID: 39514991 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.111169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 10/11/2024] [Accepted: 10/25/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Costridium septicum, the causative agent of clostridial myonecrosis or gas gangrene, has been linked with colorectal malignancies, particularly tumors of the ascending colon. Due to the pathogen's resistance and the limited understanding of its genomic structure, effective therapeutic strategies are needed. This study focuses on developing a vaccine to address this issue. METHOD In this study, we employed both subtractive proteomics and reverse vaccinology to identify potential therapeutics against C. septicum. Through subtractive proteomics, we pinpointed antigenic membrane proteins that harbor virulence factors, resistance factors, and essential components for this pathogenic bacterium. These identified membrane proteins were then used to design a chimeric subunit vaccine utilizing reverse vaccinology techniques. We utilized the most effective tools and servers to identify MHC class I, II, and B-cell epitopes. These epitopes were further evaluated computationally to assess their immunogenicity, antigenicity, allergenicity, conservancy, and toxicity. The selected immunogenic epitopes were incorporated into a chimeric subunit vaccine, complemented with immune-modulating adjuvants, linkers, and the PADRE (Pan HLA-DR epitope) amino acid sequence. The resultant vaccine construct was then shortlisyed based on their interaction with MHC molecules and the TLR4/MD2 complex via docking and molecular dynamics simulations. RESULTS Our analysis identified the Flagellar biosynthetic protein (FliR; ID: A0A386PD61) as a promising vaccine target based on systemic screening of proteome of C. septicum using subtractive genome analysis. Employing a Reverse Vaccinology approach, we identified 11 MHC-I, 19 MHC-II, and 33B-cell epitopes. Among the presented multi-epitope vaccines, the chimeric V1 had the strongest interaction with TLR4. Moreover, the immune simulation response revealed that the chimeric protein had the strongest ability to stimulate the immune system. In addition, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation indicated the proper and stable interactions between the chimeric cell-wall-associated transporter and TLR4 and HLAs, simulation, and in silico expression. CONCLUSION This study advances our understanding of preventive strategies against C. septicum by proposing a vaccine framework capable of inducing an immunogenic response. However, the effectiveness of this vaccine in preventing infection and potential colorectal cancer development requires validation through immunoassays (both in vitro and in vivo) and site-directed mutagenesis studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Hassan Khanzada
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Karachi, Pakistan; Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ariba Khan
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Karachi, Pakistan; Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Kanwal Khan
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Khurshid Jalal
- HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Reaz Uddin
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Pakistan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Salvarani FM, Vieira EV. Clostridial Infections in Cattle: A Comprehensive Review with Emphasis on Current Data Gaps in Brazil. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2919. [PMID: 39457848 PMCID: PMC11506116 DOI: 10.3390/ani14202919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2024] [Revised: 10/02/2024] [Accepted: 10/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridial infections in cattle are a significant concern for Brazilian livestock. These diseases are caused by various species of Clostridium, which are known for their ability to produce potent toxins. Botulism in cattle is a serious and often fatal condition caused by the ingestion of neurotoxins produced by C. botulinum. This bacterium thrives in decomposing organic matter, such as spoiled feed, carcasses, and contaminated water. Tetanus is less common, but it is a serious disease that follows the contamination of wounds with Clostridium tetani spores. It results in muscle stiffness, spasms, and often death due to respiratory failure. Blackleg (C. chauvoei) is a disease that primarily affects young cattle, leading to acute lameness, swelling, and high fever. Malignant edema (C. septicum and others) is characterized by rapid onset of swelling at wound sites, and it can occur after injuries or surgical procedures. Enterotoxemia is triggered by the rapid growth of C. perfringens in the gut following excessive carbohydrate intake. This leads to toxin production that causes sudden death. In conclusion, clostridial bovine infections remain a persistent challenge for Brazilian cattle farmers. With continued focus on vaccination, good management practices, and research, the impact of these diseases can be minimized, safeguarding the livestock industry's economic viability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Masiero Salvarani
- Instituto de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal 68740-970, PA, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Turban A, Joussellin V, Piau C, Cattoir V, Launey Y, Eustache G. Fatal Clostridium septicum gas gangrene complicating ECMO: case report and review of literature. Access Microbiol 2024; 6:000825.v3. [PMID: 39104453 PMCID: PMC11299951 DOI: 10.1099/acmi.0.000825.v3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridium septicum gas gangrene is a severe and deadly infection caused by an anaerobic, spore-forming, Gram-positive bacillus. As previously described, two entities are observed: traumatic and spontaneous (or non-traumatic) forms. In this report, we aim to describe the case of a fulminant and ultimately fatal C. septicum myonecrosis occurring in a patient who was first admitted for refractory cardiac arrest and placed on veino-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Building upon prior studies that have documented cases of spontaneous gas gangrene caused by C. septicum, we provide an updated compilation, focusing on microbiological characteristics of C. septicum, along with the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with spontaneous gas gangrene. Additionally, the specific clinical situation of our case illustrates the seriousness of this infectious complication that combined both spontaneous and traumatic gas gangrene risk factors. We thus, discuss the antibiotic coverage prior to the initiation of ECMO procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Turban
- Department of Bacteriology, University Hospital of Rennes, 2 Rue Henri Le Guilloux, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Vincent Joussellin
- Critical Care Unit, Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Perioperative Medicine, University Hospital of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Caroline Piau
- Department of Bacteriology, University Hospital of Rennes, 2 Rue Henri Le Guilloux, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Vincent Cattoir
- Department of Bacteriology, University Hospital of Rennes, 2 Rue Henri Le Guilloux, 35000 Rennes, France
- UMR_S 1230 BRM, Inserm/University of Rennes, 2 Avenue du Pr. Léon Bernard, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Yoann Launey
- Critical Care Unit, Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Perioperative Medicine, University Hospital of Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Gabriel Eustache
- Critical Care Unit, Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Perioperative Medicine, University Hospital of Rennes, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hussain H, Fadel A, Garcia E, Hernandez RJ, Saadoon ZF, Naseer L, Casmartino E, Hamad M, Schnepp T, Sarfraz R, Angly S, Jayakumar AR. Clostridial Myonecrosis: A Comprehensive Review of Toxin Pathophysiology and Management Strategies. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1464. [PMID: 39065232 PMCID: PMC11278868 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridial myonecrosis, commonly known as gas gangrene (GG), is a rapidly progressing and potentially fatal bacterial infection that primarily affects muscle and soft tissue. In the United States, the incidence of GG is roughly 1000 cases per year, while, in developing countries, the incidence is higher. This condition is most often caused by Clostridium perfringens, a Gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobic bacterium widely distributed in the environment, although other Clostridium species have also been reported to cause GG. The CP genome contains over 200 transport-related genes, including ABC transporters, which facilitate the uptake of sugars, amino acids, nucleotides, and ions from the host environment. There are two main subtypes of GG: traumatic GG, resulting from injuries that introduce Clostridium spores into deep tissue, where anaerobic conditions allow for bacterial growth and toxin production, and spontaneous GG, which is rarer and often occurs in immunocompromised patients. Clostridium species produce various toxins (e.g., alpha, theta, beta) that induce specific downstream signaling changes in cellular pathways, causing apoptosis or severe, fatal immunological conditions. For example, the Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin (CPA) targets the host cell's plasma membrane, hydrolyzing sphingomyelin and phosphatidylcholine, which triggers necrosis and apoptosis. The clinical manifestations of clostridial myonecrosis vary. Some patients experience the sudden onset of severe pain, swelling, and muscle tenderness, with the infection progressing rapidly to widespread tissue necrosis, systemic toxicity, and, if untreated, death. Other patients present with discharge, pain, and features of cellulitis. The diagnosis of GG primarily involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays, computer tomography (CT) scans, and culture. The treatment of GG involves surgical exploration, broad-spectrum antibiotics, antitoxin, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which is considered an adjunctive treatment to inhibit anaerobic bacterial growth and enhance the antibiotic efficacy. Early recognition and prompt, comprehensive treatment are critical to improving the outcomes for patients affected by this severe and life-threatening condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hussain Hussain
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kendall Hospital-HCA Florida Healthcare, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Aya Fadel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ocean University Medical Center—Hackensack Meridian Health, Brick, NJ 08724, USA;
| | - Efrain Garcia
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Robert J. Hernandez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kendall Hospital-HCA Florida Healthcare, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Zahraa F. Saadoon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Lamia Naseer
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Ekaterina Casmartino
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Mohammad Hamad
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Taylor Schnepp
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Rehan Sarfraz
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Sohair Angly
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease, Larkin Community Hospital, Miami, FL 33143, USA; (E.G.); (Z.F.S.); (L.N.); (E.C.); (M.H.); (T.S.); (R.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Arumugam R. Jayakumar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
John FA, Criollo V, Gaghan C, Armwood A, Holmes J, Thachil AJ, Crespo R, Kulkarni RR. Immunization of turkeys with Clostridium septicum alpha toxin-based recombinant subunit proteins can confer protection against experimental Clostridial dermatitis. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302555. [PMID: 38683795 PMCID: PMC11057757 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Clostridial dermatitis (CD), caused by Clostridium septicum, is an emerging disease of increasing economic importance in turkeys. Currently, there are no effective vaccines for CD control. Here, two non-toxic domains of C. septicum alpha toxin, namely ntATX-D1 and ntATX-D2, were identified, cloned, and expressed in Escherichia coli as recombinant subunit proteins to investigate their use as potential vaccine candidates. Experimental groups consisted of a Negative control (NCx) that did not receive C. septicum challenge, while the adjuvant-only Positive control (PCx), ntATX-D1 immunization (D1) and ntATX-D2 immunization (D2) groups received C. septicum challenge. Turkeys were immunized subcutaneously with 100 μg of protein at 7, 8 and 9 weeks of age along with an oil-in-water nano-emulsion adjuvant, followed by C. septicum challenge at 11 weeks of age. Results showed that while 46.2% of birds in the PCx group died post-challenge, the rate of mortality in D1- or D2-immunization groups was 13.3%. The gross and histopathological lesions in the skin, muscle and spleen showed that the disease severity was highest in PCx group, while the D2-immunized birds had significantly lower lesion scores when compared to PCx. Gene expression analysis revealed that PCx birds had significantly higher expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes in the skin, muscle and spleen than the NCx group, while the D2 group had significantly lower expression of these genes compared to PCx. Peripheral blood cellular analysis showed increased frequencies of activated CD4+ and/or CD8+ cells in the D1 and D2-immunized groups. Additionally, the immunized turkeys developed antigen-specific serum IgY antibodies. Collectively, these findings indicate that ntATX proteins, specifically the ntATX-D2 can be a promising vaccine candidate for protecting turkeys against CD and that the protection mechanisms may include downregulation of C. septicum-induced inflammation and increased CD4+ and CD8+ cellular activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feba Ann John
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Valeria Criollo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Carissa Gaghan
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Abigail Armwood
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Holmes
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Anil J. Thachil
- Bacteriology & Mycology Division, Rollins Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Rocio Crespo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Raveendra R. Kulkarni
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Criollo V, John FA, Gaghan C, Fletcher OJ, Thachil A, Crespo R, Kulkarni RR. Characterization of immune responses and immunopathology in turkeys experimentally infected with clostridial dermatitis-producing strains of Clostridium septicum. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2024; 269:110717. [PMID: 38340537 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2024.110717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Clostridium septicum is one of the major causative agents of clostridial dermatitis (CD), an emerging disease of turkeys, characterized by sudden deaths and necrotic dermatitis. Despite its economic burden on the poultry industry, the immunopathological changes and pathogen-specific immune responses are poorly characterized. Here, we used three strains of C. septicum, namely Str. A1, Str. B1 and Str. C1, isolated from CD field outbreaks, to experimentally infect turkeys to evaluate local (skin and muscle) and systemic (spleen) pathological and immunological responses. Results showed that while all three strains produced an acute disease, Str. A1 and B1 caused significantly higher mortality when compared to Str. C1. Gross and histopathology evaluation showed that birds infected with Str. A1 and B1 had severe inflammatory, edematous, granulomatous and necrotic lesions in the skin, muscle and spleen, while these lesions produced by Str. C1 were relatively less severe and mostly confined to skin and/or muscle. Immune gene expression in these tissues showed that Str. B1-infected birds had significantly higher expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and interferon (IFN)γ genes compared to uninfected control, suggesting a robust inflammatory response both locally as well as systemically. The transcription of IL-1β and IFNγ in the muscle or spleen of Str. A1-infected birds and IL-1β in the skin of Str. C1-infected group was also significantly higher than control. Additionally, Str. A1 or B1-infected groups also had significantly higher IL-4 transcription in these tissues, while birds infected with all three strains developed C. septicum-specific serum antibodies. Furthermore, splenic cellular immunophenotyping in the infected turkeys showed a marked reduction in CD4+ cells. Collectively, it can be inferred that host responses against C. septicum involve an acute inflammatory response along with antibody production and that the disease severity seem to depend on the strain of C. septicum involved in CD in turkeys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Criollo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
| | - Feba Ann John
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
| | - Carissa Gaghan
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
| | - Oscar J Fletcher
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
| | - Anil Thachil
- Bacteriology & Mycology Division, Rollins Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, 4400 Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
| | - Rocio Crespo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
| | - Raveendra R Kulkarni
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu PY, Xia D, McGonigle K, Carroll AB, Chiango J, Scavello H, Martins R, Mehta S, Krespan E, Lunde E, LeVine D, Fellman CL, Goggs R, Beiting DP, Garden OA. Immune-mediated hematological disease in dogs is associated with alterations of the fecal microbiota: a pilot study. Anim Microbiome 2023; 5:46. [PMID: 37770990 PMCID: PMC10540429 DOI: 10.1186/s42523-023-00268-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The dog is the most popular companion animal and is a valuable large animal model for several human diseases. Canine immune-mediated hematological diseases, including immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), share many features in common with autoimmune hematological diseases of humans. The gut microbiome has been linked to systemic illness, but few studies have evaluated its association with immune-mediated hematological disease. To address this knowledge gap, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to profile the fecal microbiota of dogs with spontaneous IMHA and ITP at presentation and following successful treatment. In total, 21 affected and 13 healthy control dogs were included in the study. RESULTS IMHA/ITP is associated with remodeling of fecal microbiota, marked by decreased relative abundance of the spirochete Treponema spp., increased relative abundance of the pathobionts Clostridium septicum and Escherichia coli, and increased overall microbial diversity. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that Treponema spp. were associated with decreased risk of IMHA/ITP (odds ratio [OR] 0.24-0.34), while Ruminococcaceae UCG-009 and Christensenellaceae R-7 group were associated with increased risk of disease (OR = 6.84 [95% CI 2-32.74] and 8.36 [95% CI 1.85-71.88] respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates an association of immune-mediated hematological diseases in dogs with fecal dysbiosis, and points to specific bacterial genera as biomarkers of disease. Microbes identified as positive or negative risk factors for IMHA/ITP represent an area for future research as potential targets for new diagnostic assays and/or therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P-Y Liu
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, 804201, Taiwan
| | - D Xia
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Royal College Street, London, NW1 0TU, UK
| | - K McGonigle
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - A B Carroll
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - J Chiango
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - H Scavello
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - R Martins
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - S Mehta
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 380 South University Avenue, Philadelphia, 19104, USA
| | - E Krespan
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 380 South University Avenue, Philadelphia, 19104, USA
| | - E Lunde
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, 1809 South Riverside Drive, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - D LeVine
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, 1809 South Riverside Drive, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, 1220 Wire Road, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - C L Fellman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - R Goggs
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, 930 Campus Road, Box 31, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - D P Beiting
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 380 South University Avenue, Philadelphia, 19104, USA
| | - O A Garden
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Advanced Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3900 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Dean's Office, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Skip Bertman Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Du J, Meki I, Li Q, Liu Y, Zhu Z, Pan C, Xia Y, Fu L, Yang L, Zhang S, Yin C, Luo Y, Wang T, Liu B, Chen X. A non-toxic recombinant Clostridium septicum α toxin induces protective immunity in mice and rabbits. Toxicon 2023; 233:107234. [PMID: 37543293 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Clostridium septicum alpha toxin (CSA) plays significant roles in ruminant's braxy. Genetically engineered CSA has been shown to function as a potential vaccine candidate in the prevention of the disease caused by Clostridium septicum. In the present study, we synthesized a non-toxic recombinant, rCSAm4/TMD by introducing four amino acid substitutions (C86L/N296A/H301A/W342A) and 11-amino-acid deletion (residues 212 to 222). Compared to recombinant CSA, rCSAm4/TMD showed no cytotoxicity to MDCK cells and was not fatal to mice. Moreover, rCSAm4/TMD could protect immunized mice against 5 × mouse LD100 (100% lethal dose) of crude CSA without obvious pathological change. Most importantly, rabbits immunized with rCSAm4/TMD produced high titers of neutralizing antibodies which protected the rabbits against crude CSA challenge. These data suggest that genetically detoxified rCSAm4/TMD is a potential subunit vaccine candidate against braxy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jige Du
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Irene Meki
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Qianlin Li
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Liu
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zhu
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenfan Pan
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingju Xia
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lizhi Fu
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing, 402460, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing, 402460, China
| | - Suhui Zhang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Sciences, Chongqing, 402460, China
| | - Chunsheng Yin
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yufeng Luo
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tuanjie Wang
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bo Liu
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China; International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Xiaoyun Chen
- China Institute of Veterinary Drug Control, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Criollo V, Gaghan C, John F, Orozco E, Thachil A, Crespo R, Kulkarni RR. Immune Response Evaluation in Commercial Turkeys Affected with Clostridial Dermatitis. Avian Dis 2023; 67:80-88. [PMID: 37140115 DOI: 10.1637/aviandiseases-d-22-00089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
Clostridial dermatitis (CD), caused by Clostridium septicum and Clostridium perfringens, is an economically important emerging disease of turkeys characterized by sudden deaths and necrotic dermatitis. Immune responses in CD-affected commercial turkeys are poorly understood. In the present study, C. septicum was isolated from CD-affected commercial turkeys during a recent outbreak, and the tissues (skin, muscle, and spleen) were collected and analyzed for immune gene expression, along with samples from clinically healthy birds. The results showed that CD-affected turkeys had significantly higher levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IFNγ, and iNOS transcripts in the skin, muscle, and spleen tissues compared to healthy birds. Affected turkeys also had a significantly elevated transcription of toll-like receptor (TLR21) gene in the skin and spleen tissues, suggesting a role for this receptor in the immune recognition. The expression of IL-4 and IL-13 genes in the spleen and muscle was also significantly higher in the affected birds. Additional birds from the same affected and healthy farms examined for serology revealed that the CD-affected turkeys had significantly higher levels of serum IgM and IgY antibodies. Furthermore, in vitro stimulation of MQ-NCSU macrophages with C. septicum led to a significant transcriptional upregulation of IL-1β and IFNγ genes, while the IL-10 gene expression was downregulated. The surface expression of MHC-II protein and cellular production of nitric oxide were also significantly increased in the C. septicum-stimulated macrophages, indicating cellular activation. Collectively, our findings suggest that the host responses in CD-affected turkeys involve a robust inflammatory response as well as a response mediated by IL4/IL-13 cytokines that may aid in antibody-mediated immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Criollo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606
| | - Carissa Gaghan
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606
| | - Feba John
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606
| | - Eric Orozco
- Butterball LLC, P.O. Box 10009, Goldsboro, NC 27532
| | - Anil Thachil
- Bacteriology & Mycology Division, Rollins Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, 4400 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607
| | - Rocio Crespo
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606
| | - Raveendra R. Kulkarni
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
A non-toxic recombinant bivalent chimeric protein rETX m3CSA m4/TMD as a potential vaccine candidate against enterotoxemia and braxy. Vaccine 2023; 41:1232-1238. [PMID: 36635138 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxin (ETX) and Clostridium septicum alpha toxin (CSA) are lethal and necrotizing toxins, which play key roles in enterotoxemia and braxy of ruminants, respectively. In the present study, we synthesized a bivalent chimeric protein rETXm3CSAm4/TMD comprising ETXm3 (Y30A/H106P/Y196A) and CSAm4/TMD (C86L/N296A/H301A/W342A and a deletion of residues 212 to 222). Compared with recombinant ETX and recombinant CSA, rETXm3CSAm4/TMD showed no cytotoxicity in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney cells and was not fatal to mice. Moreover, rETXm3CSAm4/TMD could protect immunized mice against 10 × mouse LD100 of crude ETX or 3 × mouse LD100 of crude CSA without obvious histopathologic difference. Most importantly, both rabbits and sheep immunized with rETXm3CSAm4/TMD produced high titers of neutralizing antibody which protected the animals against the challenge with crude ETX or crude CSA. These data suggest that genetically detoxified rETXm3CSAm4/TMD is a potential subunit vaccine candidate against enterotoxemia and braxy.
Collapse
|
11
|
Alves MLF, Ferreira MRA, Rodrigues RR, Conceição FR. Clostridium haemolyticum, a review of beta toxin and insights into the antigen design for vaccine development. Mol Immunol 2022; 148:45-53. [PMID: 35665660 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Phospholipases C (PLCs) represent an important group of lethal toxins produced by pathogenic bacteria of the Clostridium genus, including the beta toxin of C. haemolyticum. Bacillary hemoglobinuria in cattle and sheep is the main disease caused by this pathogen and its incidence can be reduced by annual vaccination of herds. Currently, widely used vaccines depend on cultivating the pathogen and obtaining high concentrations of the toxin, disadvantages that can be overcome with the use of recombinant vaccines. In the development of this new generation of immunizing agents, identifying and understanding the structural and immunological aspects of the antigen are crucial steps, but despite this, the beta toxin is poorly characterized. Fortunately, the time and resources required for these investigations can be reduced using immunoinformatics. To advance the development of recombinant vaccines, in addition to a brief review of the structural and immunological aspects of beta toxin, this work provides in silico mapping of immunodominant regions to guide future vaccinology studies against C. haemolyticum. A review of alternatives to overcome the limitations of beta toxin vaccines (conventional or recombinant) is also proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariliana Luiza Ferreira Alves
- Instituto Federal Sul-rio-grandense - IFSUL, Praça Vinte de Setembro, 455, Centro, Pelotas CEP 96.015-360, RS, Brazil; Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, CP 354, Pelotas CEP 96.160-000, RS, Brazil.
| | - Marcos Roberto Alves Ferreira
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, CP 354, Pelotas CEP 96.160-000, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Rodrigues Rodrigues
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, CP 354, Pelotas CEP 96.160-000, RS, Brazil
| | - Fabricio Rochedo Conceição
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Núcleo de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, CP 354, Pelotas CEP 96.160-000, RS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Seely KD, Morgan AD, Hagenstein LD, Florey GM, Small JM. Bacterial Involvement in Progression and Metastasis of Colorectal Neoplasia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:1019. [PMID: 35205767 PMCID: PMC8870662 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
While the gut microbiome is composed of numerous bacteria, specific bacteria within the gut may play a significant role in carcinogenesis, progression, and metastasis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC). Certain microbial species are known to be associated with specific cancers; however, the interrelationship between bacteria and metastasis is still enigmatic. Mounting evidence suggests that bacteria participate in cancer organotropism during solid tumor metastasis. A critical review of the literature was conducted to better characterize what is known about bacteria populating a distant site and whether a tumor depends upon the same microenvironment during or after metastasis. The processes of carcinogenesis, tumor growth and metastatic spread in the setting of bacterial infection were examined in detail. The literature was scrutinized to discover the role of the lymphatic and venous systems in tumor metastasis and how microbes affect these processes. Some bacteria have a potent ability to enhance epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a critical step in the metastatic cascade. Bacteria also can modify the microenvironment and the local immune profile at a metastatic site. Early targeted antibiotic therapy should be further investigated as a measure to prevent metastatic spread in the setting of bacterial infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D. Seely
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University, Ivins, UT 84738, USA; (A.D.M.); (L.D.H.)
| | - Amanda D. Morgan
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University, Ivins, UT 84738, USA; (A.D.M.); (L.D.H.)
| | - Lauren D. Hagenstein
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University, Ivins, UT 84738, USA; (A.D.M.); (L.D.H.)
| | - Garrett M. Florey
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rocky Vista University, Parker, CO 80134, USA;
| | - James M. Small
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Rocky Vista University, Parker, CO 80134, USA;
| |
Collapse
|